New digital service launches to help support those with complex mental health

Australians with complex mental health issues are set to benefit from the country's first digital and telephone service that provides ongoing mental health support designed specifically for them.

Developed and delivered by leading complex mental health organisation SANE (Opens in new tab), this new service provides guided support for people with issues like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or OCD. The service is also built for the autistic community and those with intellectual disability seeking mental health support.

Participants will have their own personalised programs of online or over the phone counselling and peer support as well as recovery activities, such as online community forums, social groups and art sessions — all via a new digital participant portal.

According to the Federal Government's Productivity Commission, more than 150,000 Australians are currently missing out on vital psychosocial support services that could help them manage daily activities, increase social connection, and improve their quality of life.

SANE CEO, Rachel Green, says this free service will help bridge that gap in psychosocial support as well as providing critical support to people currently on waiting lists for clinical services.

“We know thousands need a support service that is more than a one-off counselling session; a service that provides continuity and connects them to others who can help make sense of what they're going through and support them through tough times.”

The new support service provided by SANE is currently available for self-referral and referral by a health professional in selected regions across Australia.

“When a person is referred, they are welcomed, befriended and supported in a way that works for them and their recovery. And, in an Australian-first, we are providing much-needed ongoing support over a period of weeks or months, including welcoming participants to our online communities,” continued Ms Green.

The service is delivered with the support from the Australian Government.